Massive Bleaching Hits Andaman Sea Reefs - Worst In 20 Years For Thais - Bangkok Post

Marine scientists have been closely watching massive coral bleaching in the Andaman Sea, believed to be the worst case in Thai waters for 20 years. Coral reefs in the Andaman Sea off Phangnga, Krabi and Phuket, including popular diving sites such as the Similan, Phi Phi and Surin islands, have been damaged by the phenomenon.

The bleaching is likely to extend as far as Satun province, and could get worse if sea temperatures continue to rise, said Niphon Phongsuwan, a marine biologist at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre (PMBC).

"The coral bleaching began happening last month. Five percent of the coral reefs affected by the phenomenon have already died. More coral will be damaged if the sea temperature remains high," said Mr Niphon. "We are waiting for the rain, which can help cool down the sea temperature," he said. The PMBC has been working closely with dive operators, who help monitor the coral bleaching situation. The phenomenon is also occurring in the Gulf of Thailand, such as in Rayong province, Mr Niphon said.

Scientists believe the main cause of coral bleaching is the warming of the oceans, which forces zooxantaellae, an algae which co-exists with the coral and gives it colour, to detach from the corals' shell. Strong sunlight can also kill the coral.

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http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/36984/andaman-sea-coral-reefs-hit-by-bleaching